Man charged following Newtonhill housebreaking

Scott Milne

A 19-year-old man has been charged in connection with a theft by housebreaking from a public house in the Newtonhill area on June 26.

Sergeant Rod Smith said: “I would like to thank the public who assisted with this inquiry.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind people living in Newtonhill and surrounding areas including Portlethen and Stonehaven - places which have been affected by acquisitive crime in recent weeks - of the importance of keeping their properties safe and secure and keeping their valuables locked away at all times.

“It can take a split second for someone to enter an insecure property, shed, garage or car and get away with your possessions, and all it can take is some simple steps to ensure you don’t become a victim.

“As a division, Operation Magpie has been launched to target acquisitive crime and officers are doing all they can to target people who blight our communities.”

To this end, he appealed to the public for their assistance.

“We need help from the public too though to lock up, be vigilant and not to give these people a chance,” he added. “They will try any house or car door until they find one unlocked. Please ensure you take the basic steps of locking your vehicles and house, and think about investing in good quality locks and alarms.

“Anyone with any concerns about acquisitive crime should contact Police Scotland on 101.”